How To Make A Gift Box Out Of Cardboard: Explained (2023)

Last Updated on August 30, 2023 by Kimberlee Johnson

Back when I enjoyed making crafts or art projects, I discovered a great method to make lovely gift boxes using only cardboard.

It’s amazing how cardboard can become a special gift box with creative ideas.

So, if you’re excited to know this crafty trick, stay with me as I show you how to make a gift box out of cardboard.

This way, you can surprise your special someone with unique boxes for their gifts that truly come from the heart.

Table of Contents

An Easy Guide To Make A Gift Box Using Cardboard

Measure and Cut: Start by figuring out how big you want your gift box to be. Get two pieces of cardboard [1] the same size for the top and bottom and four pieces for the sides. Make sure to cut them neatly.
Make Fold Lines Along The Cardboard: Using a ruler, a craft knife, or a blunt edge, make gentle lines where you plan to fold the cardboard. These lines will act as guides to help you fold the cardboard in the right places.
Fold It Neatly: Carefully fold the cardboard along your made lines. Take your time to make sure the corners and edges line up nicely. This is the part where your box starts taking shape.
Secure Edges: To strengthen your box, use glue or double-sided tape on the edges. This keeps everything together and prevents your box from wobbling.
Add Your Style: Now it’s time to get creative! Use paint, glitter, stickers, or whatever you like to make your box look special. This step lets you personalize your gift box and make it unique.
Put Your Gift Inside: Carefully place your gift inside the box. Gently close the lid. The box can be closed with a ribbon or by folding the flaps over the top.
Final Touch: Your gift box is ready to shine! The effort you put into making it shows how much you care. Now, it’s all set to make your gift even more exciting when you give it to someone.

What Materials Are Needed?

1. Cardboard (preferably corrugated)

2. Scissors or craft knife

3. Kraft paper (for cardboard layers)

4. Ruler

5. Pen or pencil

6. Glue or tape (double-sided tape or hot glue work well)

7. Decorative materials (such as ribbon, stickers, or paint)

What Type Of Cardboard Is Used To Construct Gift Boxes?

Gift boxes are typically constructed using a type of cardboard known as corrugated cardboard.

This cardboard type comprises three layers: a wavy inner layer (corrugate) sandwiched between two flat outer layers (liners).

“It’s easier to think outside the box if you don’t draw one around yourself.”
– Jason Kravitz, American Actor

The corrugate provides strength and stability to the box, while the liners provide a smooth surface for printing and decoration.

And since it is simple to cut, fold, and glue into various shapes and sizes, this long-lasting and versatile material is ideal for gift boxes due to its suitability for the purpose.

Plus, it is lightweight, making it easy to ship and transport. But what exactly does “no boxed gift” mean?

What Is the Best Cardstock For Making Boxes?

The best cardstock for making boxes depends on the box’s intended use and desired aesthetic.

For boxes that need to be sturdy and hold a lot of weight, thick cardstock with a high weight rating of around 280gsm to 350gsm cardstock is recommended.

“Beyond recyclable material, cardboard becomes a symbol of the infinite possibilities of generosity.”
Howkapow Gift Site

On the other hand, if you’re going to use a box for decorative or display purposes, a thinner cardstock with a lower weight rating of at least 220gsm to 280gsm may be sufficient.

What Makes Cardstock Different From Cardboard?

Compared to standard printing paper, cardstock is noticeably thicker and sturdy.

Meanwhile, cardboard is a thick, stiff material made from paper pulp or recycled paper products.

Cardstock is often used for projects such as invitations, business cards, and book covers, while cardboard is commonly used for boxes, packaging, and other durable items.

Find out how subscription boxes make money here.

How Do You Make A Large Present Box Out Of Paper?

1. Gather your materials.

You will need large sheets of cardstock (A4 size), construction paper, scissors, glue or tape, and any decorations you would like to add to the box, such as ribbon or glitter [2].

2. Create the base of the box. Cut two pieces of cardstock to the desired size of the base of the box.

Glue or tape the edges of the two pieces together to form a rectangular shape.

3. Make the sides of the box. Cut four pieces of cardstock to the desired height of the box.

Glue or tape the edges of the four pieces together to form a rectangular shape that is the same size as the base.

4. Attach the sides to the base. Apply glue or tape to the edges of the base and attach the sides to it, creating a three-dimensional box shape.

5. Decorate the box. Add any decorations to the box, such as wrapping it with ribbon or adding glitter.

6. Lastly, add the lid. Cut a piece of cardstock to the size of the top of the box. Glue or tape it to the top of the box to create a lid.

FAQs

What fun things can you make out of cardboard?

You can use cardboard to create dollhouses, forts, robots, and furniture.

Plus, It can be used to make a wide range of other items, such as photo frames, picture frames, picture holders, picture hangers, and picture shelves.

Check out these fun ways to give money as a present here.

Is it okay to put hot glue on cardboard?

Yes, hot glue can be used on cardboard, but it is important to use it in moderation as it can cause the cardboard to warp or become brittle over time.

Do you include tissue paper inside of a gift box?

Tissue paper is often used to add a decorative touch to a gift box and to protect the contents of the box from damage.

It can also fill empty spaces inside the box and make the gift look full and polished.

Check out these gifts you can put for your boyfriend’s gift box here.

In Summary

Ultimately, I’ve shown you how to create a personalized gift box from cardboard through these simple steps.

As someone who’s always seeking efficient solutions, I can attest to the effectiveness of these steps.

Start by measuring and cutting the cardboard to size – it’s the foundation for a sturdy box. Scoring along fold lines ensures clean bends essential for a polished finish.

The folding process might seem straightforward, but it’s where your box takes shape. Secure edges mean a stable box, so don’t skimp on the glue or double-sided tape.

Adding your unique touch with decorations makes your gift box truly reflect your thoughtfulness.

Following this easy guide, you’ll craft more than just a container – you’ll create a tangible representation of the care you’ve put into your gift.

References:

https://www.colorado.edu/ecenter/2021/02/09/ways-reuse-cardboard-and-why-it-important

https://www.buzzfeed.com/julianakataoka/facts-about-glitter

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Kimberlee Johnson

Kimberlee Johnson is a preschool teacher and a mom of 3. She puts a lot of thought into gift-buying and gift-giving as she believes that each gift should tell a story. She enjoys scrapbooking and watching the History Channel. Learn more about us here or you can email us [email protected].